Lead(er) Generation on Tenlo Radio

Aaron Grando guest hosts on this episode of the Leader Generation Podcast, where we explore the fast-growing world of "vibe coding" with Joe DiGiovanna, VP of Technology, and Fabio Fiss, head of the DX team at Mod Op.  If you've heard the term “vibe coding” floating around but aren't quite sure what it means—or how it applies to real-world development work—this is the conversation you need to hear. Aaron, Joe, and Fabio break down how AI-powered coding tools are transforming developer workflows, empowering non-coders to create, and reshaping how teams build prototypes and scale projects.  From Cursor to Claude and beyond, they share hands-on experience and stories from inside Mod Op. Whether you're a seasoned dev, a tech leader or just curious about how AI is changing the game, this episode is a great primer on what vibe coding is—and where it's headed. Leader Generation is brought to you by Mod Op.  Contributors: Joe DiGiovanna, VP of Engineering at Mod Op Fabio Fiss, VP of Technology at Mod Op About Guest Host Aaron Grando: Aaron Grando, VP, Creative Innovation on Mod Op's Innovation team, is a seasoned technologist with over 15 years of experience at creative agencies. With a background in strategy, design, engineering, and marketing, Aaron has worked extensively in industries like media, entertainment, gaming, food & beverage, fashion, and technology. At Mod Op, Aaron leads efforts to integrate AI into creative processes, creating tools that connect creatives and clients with insights, spark ideas, and enable new brand experiences. Projects include collaborations with companies like NBCUniversal, Bethesda Softworks, Under Armour, Planet Fitness, Dietz & Watson, and more, focusing on infusing creative strategies with innovative technology to create cutting-edge brand experiences. 

What if you could stretch your media budget without spending more? In this episode of Leader Generation, host Tessa Burg talks with Wandrille Leroy, the brains behind the Scibids AI at DoubleVerify, about how marketers can get more value from their ad spend using smarter, customizable automation.  Wandrille explains how Scibids helps marketers take control of their media-buying strategy, align spending with their specific goals and achieve better outcomes across platforms like DV360, The Trade Desk, Meta and more. You'll hear how Scibids fits into a landscape filled with walled gardens, bot fraud and limited visibility—and how it offers a way forward by boosting transparency and performance.  Whether you're a seasoned media buyer or just trying to make your budget work harder, Wandrille shares insights that can help you measure what matters and make sure every impression counts.   Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Wandrille Leroy: Wandrille Leroy leads revenue for DoubleVerify's Scibids AI, where he plays a central role in advancing the adoption of AI-powered optimization solutions across the digital advertising ecosystem. As a trained engineer, he brings nearly a decade of experience in programmatic media, with a strong focus on delivering greater customization and control to marketers. His career has centered on bridging technical innovation with strategic outcomes, helping brands and agencies navigate an increasingly complex and automated landscape. Since joining Scibids in its very early stages, Wandrille has been instrumental in shaping the company's vision and driving its global growth through impactful, scalable technology partnerships.    About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

What happens when an old-school creative jumps headfirst into AI? In this episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg talks with Sergio Cardona for an eye-opening look at how technology is changing the creative process.  Sergio shares his journey from traditional design roots to becoming a leader in AI-driven creativity, showing how curiosity and adaptability can open new doors for any creative professional. You'll hear how tools like Midjourney and ChatGPT help Sergio move faster, break through creative blocks, and tell richer, more engaging stories.  But this conversation goes beyond tools—it's about mindset. Whether you're a designer, marketer, or just AI-curious, you'll walk away with fresh insights on how to partner with technology without losing the human spark that makes great work stand out. Give it a listen—you'll be inspired to rethink what's possible. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Sergio Cardona: Lead AI Designer at Mod Op, Sergio Cardona is a multidisciplinary designer with a focus on packaging design, 3D packaging CGI, modeling and creative technology. He moved to the U.S. at 17 and studied Packaging Design at FIT. Since starting his career in 2007, he's grown his skills by blending traditional design with new tools and technologies. He's now expanding into AI design, bringing intelligent systems into his workflow while staying true to strong design fundamentals. By combining classic design, motion and 3D packaging CGI with the power of AI, Sergio creates work that's both creative and scalable. He's known for balancing sharp visual instincts with a systems-driven mindset—treating design as both a craft and a collaboration between human creativity and technology.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Explore how AI can automate quality assurance and testing for marketers and content teams.  QA experts Giselle Castro and Carlos Obaldia share how they compared two leading AI tools, Katalon and BrowserStack. Together, they discuss how these platforms help teams test faster, cover more ground and free up valuable time for creative and strategic work. Listeners will get a firsthand look at how Mod Op's QA team approached the comparison, the real challenges they tackled (like reducing manual testing and overcoming change resistance) and the measurable improvements they achieved.  Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  Contributors: Giselle Castro, Quality Assurance & Authoring (QAA) Carlos Obaldia, Senior Quality Assurance & Compliance Assurance (QA & CA) Guest Host Patty Parobek: As Vice President of AI Transformation, Patty leads Mod Op's AI practice group, spearheading initiatives to maximize the value and scalability of AI-enabled solutions. Patty collaborates with the executive team to revolutionize creative, advertising and marketing projects for clients, while ensuring responsible AI practices. She also oversees AI training programs, identifies high-value AI use cases and measures implementation impact, providing essential feedback to Mod Op's AI Council for continuous improvement. Patty can be reached on LinkedIn or at Patty.Parobek@ModOp.com.

What if data wasn't just something you measured, but a powerful spark for your most creative marketing ideas? In this episode, Tessa Burg talks with Boobesh Ramadurai to explore how artificial intelligence is changing the game for marketers—especially when it comes to blending data, creativity, and speed.  With over two decades of experience working with Fortune 500 companies, Boobesh shares real-world stories, helpful trends, and smart strategies to help you move faster, work smarter, and create content that truly connects. You'll hear how brands are using AI to understand their audiences on a deeper level, make real-time campaign decisions, and even rethink what “good content” really means.  Grab your headphones—this one's packed with insight and inspiration you don't want to miss. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Boobesh Ramadurai: Boobesh Ramadurai comes with two decades of extensive hands-on experience in analytics, digital marketing, and data visualization. He specializes in building high-performing customer-facing teams that drive revenue growth and ensure customer success. At LatentView Analytics, Boobesh acts as a strategic consulting partner for chief marketing officers (CMOs), helping organizations accelerate their AI-driven marketing maturity. With expertise in building AI-first marketing data solutions for Fortune 500 clients across various industries, Boobesh focuses on developing internal capabilities in marketing analytics and LLM operations. He manages a large global analytics team comprising high-performing talent in data engineering, data analytics, and data science. Boobesh has a proven track record in establishing multiple onsite and offshore teams by implementing industry-standard best practices and guidelines for effective collaboration. He is currently heading the Centre of Excellence for Marketing Analytics for LatentView Analytics.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

What if the biggest impact of AI isn't replacing jobs, but quickly raising the bar for everyone? In this episode of Leader Generation, host Tessa Burg talks with serial entrepreneur and Corpora.ai CEO Mel Morris about AI in business and marketing.  Mel brings decades of experience building and scaling tech companies—from his humble beginnings in data collection to leading King Digital, the force behind Candy Crush. He's now pioneering a new kind of AI-powered research engine—and he's got a lot to say about where we're heading next. Mel gets into the practical realities of AI: how it's shifting the competitive landscape, how it can (and should) be used to save time, and why understanding your unique value is more important than ever. He offers a refreshing perspective on how AI is helping lower-skilled individuals rise up and what that means for marketing teams trying to stand out in a sea of sameness.  Whether you're just starting to explore AI or already knee-deep, this episode will challenge your assumptions and help you think more strategically about your tech stack and your value. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Mel Morris: Mel Morris is a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO and co-founder of Corpora.ai, a groundbreaking AI-driven research platform transforming how we harness research. Known as the former chairman of King Digital Entertainment, creators of the global hit Candy Crush Saga, Mel has a proven track record of driving innovation and building market-leading companies. With a deep passion for technology and its potential to transform industries, Mel now focuses on advancing AI to optimize research and decision-making. His leadership and forward-thinking approach continue to shape the future of technology and business.    About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international

In this episode of Leader Generation, host Tessa Burg speaks with Aaron Grando, VP of Creative Innovation at Mod Op, about how the agency is using AI to enhance creative work and improve client experiences.  Aaron shares the story behind Brand Agent, Mod Op's AI-powered assistant designed to align capabilities similar to ChatGPT with each client's unique voice, values and goals. Aaron and Tessa discuss how Brand Agent not only enhances internal efficiencies—such as content writing, data summarization and brainstorming ideas—but also transforms how brands connect with their audiences. From personalized emails to AI-enhanced search and content recommendations, Aaron shows how AI goes beyond just being a productivity tool; it becomes a creative partner.  Whether you're leading marketing for a brand or working at an agency, this episode showcases the potential when innovation and brand integrity come together. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Aaron Grando: Aaron Grando, VP, Creative Innovation on Mod Op's Innovation team, is a seasoned technologist with over 15 years of experience at creative agencies. With a background in strategy, design, engineering, and marketing, Aaron has worked extensively in industries like media, entertainment, gaming, food & beverage, fashion, and technology. At Mod Op, Aaron leads efforts to integrate AI into creative processes, creating tools that connect creatives and clients with insights, spark ideas, and enable new brand experiences. Projects include collaborations with companies like NBCUniversal, Bethesda Softworks, Under Armour, Planet Fitness, Dietz & Watson, and more, focusing on infusing creative strategies with innovative technology to create cutting-edge brand experiences.    About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

To celebrate Women in Tech Day, Tessa Burg is joined by Elli Dimitroulakos, Head of Ad Product and Innovation at Media.net. As a trailblazer in the ad tech industry, Elli shares her journey through transformative roles in media, TV, DSPs, broadcasting, publishing and podcasting.  She discusses how embracing change and fostering cultures of innovation have fueled her success, even when faced with resistance. Elli's insights into balancing human-driven innovation with data-backed decisions offer practical strategies for leaders navigating today's fast-evolving tech landscape. Listen in as Elli explains how Media.net is revolutionizing ad tech by bridging the gap between publishers and advertisers, using search intent data to deliver more efficient and personalized targeting.  From overcoming resistance to change to fostering diverse thinking and leveraging AI for better collaboration, this episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to lead through innovation.  Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Elli Dimitroulakos: Elli Dimitroulakos, based in New York, NY, is currently the Head of Ad Product Strategy and Innovation at Media.net. Elli Dimitroulakos brings experience from previous roles at Delphi Global Media, IAB, Acast Ab and Chief. Elli holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Management, Business Administration and Management at American College of Greece. She has a robust skillset that includes Microsoft Office, Project Management, Marketing, Accounting, Advertising and more.  About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Change is hard—especially in big organizations with deeply ingrained processes. But what if you could lead transformation in a way that not only gets buy-in but also generates real business growth?  In this episode of Leader Generation, Alan Wizemann, Chief Digital Officer at Southern Glazer's, shares how he has built a career helping companies like Target, Lululemon and Dollar Shave Club evolve in the face of digital disruption. Alan walks us through the challenges of leading change, the importance of transparency and why fostering innovation from within can lead to breakthrough success. He also discusses how AI is reshaping sales and marketing—and why it's not about replacing people, but empowering them.  Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Alan Wizemann: Alan Wizemann is Chief Digital Officer for Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits (Southern Glazer's), the world's pre-eminent distributor of beverage alcohol, and proud to be a multi-generational, family-owned Company. Wizemann leads the Company's Digital Acceleration group, overseeing Southern Glazer's digital transformation, and is responsible for enterprise-wide digital initiatives—including the industry-leading B2B eCommerce Proof® platform. With decades of experience in digital product development, omni-channel experiences, technology, and entrepreneurship, Wizemann has been instrumental in shaping and transforming the digital landscape for some of the world's most well-known consumer companies. At Target Corporation, he launched and led key digital initiatives across Target.com, Target Mobile, and Cartwheel, which became an industry-leading mobile platform. Wizemann also held digital leadership roles driving transformation at Lululemon Athletica Inc., Goop, WebMD, Dollar Shave Club, quip, and most recently, Munchkin Inc. His visionary approach to product strategy, user-centric design and building agile teams at scale has consistently delivered results.  Wizemann is an engineer at heart who has delivered effective solutions in complex environments, and he is a proven entrepreneur who has built and scaled digital capabilities and fostered a culture of innovation. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Curious about AI-powered video and audio editing but don't know where to start?  In this episode of Leader Generation, Cheryl Boehm and Patty Parobek share their experiences with Descript, an AI-driven tool that simplifies the editing process—even if you have zero experience. They share real-world insights from their hands-on testing, covering both the advantages and limitations of the platform. Whether you're a marketer, content creator, or someone looking to streamline video production, this episode provides valuable takeaways on how Descript can help you save time, automate tedious editing tasks and improve your workflow. Leader Generation brought to you by Mod Op.    Contributors: Patty Parobek, VP of AI Transformation at Mod Op Cheryl Boehm, Director of Copywriting at Mod Op   Guest Host, Cheryl Boehm: Cheryl Boehm is a digital content writer with 25+ years of marketing experience, primarily in B2B. She strives to deliver the best online experiences to customers and prospects that, ultimately, lead to company growth for clients. She stubbornly insists there's no single messaging approach that's right for everyone. Period. So, in her role as Director of Copywriting at Mod Op, Cheryl pushes to personalize content strategy with an individual “cheat code” that empowers each client to reach their end game fastest.   

Experiential events are booming, and Liz Holden joins Tessa Burg to explain why.  In this episode, Liz shares how AI and emerging technologies are revolutionizing how brands engage with audiences in physical spaces. From personalized event experiences to interactive tech like AR, VR and voice-enabled AI, the future of events is more dynamic than ever. You'll also hear about the lasting impact of the pandemic on events, the rising demand for in-person connection and the evolving role of data in measuring success.  Don't miss this conversation about marketing, events and where the industry is headed. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Liz Holden: Liz Holden is the EVP of Mod Op's Experiential and Events business unit, leading the development and production of the agency's experiential services. She collaborates with leaders and cross-functional teams to create innovative, integrated marketing solutions that drive client success. As a Mod Op leader, Liz contributes to the agency's continued growth as one of the fastest-growing independent marketing agencies in the U.S., harnessing technology, innovation and human creativity to fuel growth.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Is your performance marketing strategy keeping up with the rapid changes in data, AI and media attribution?  In this episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg talks with Jeremy Haft, Chief Revenue Officer at Digital Remedy, about how brands can navigate these shifts to drive real business results. Jeremy shares insights on how marketers can connect the dots between upper-funnel awareness channels and performance-driven outcomes, proving the value of every marketing dollar spent.  He also dives into the role of AI in creative personalization, the deprecation of third-party cookies, and how brands can future-proof their strategies.  Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Jeremy Haft: Jeremy Haft serves as Chief Revenue Officer at Digital Remedy and is a proven strategic, revenue and team leader with over 20 years of experience scaling revenue in the competitive ad tech landscape. Before joining the team in October 2022, Haft served as CRO at Channel Factory, where he reorganized the revenue team for sustainable growth and increased the sales team by 3X to drive predictable and more accountable revenue. Prior to that, he served in a decade of leadership positions, including SVP of Sales at Amobee and VP of North America Sales at Viant/Adelphic. At both organizations, Haft successfully built platforms and business solutions from infancy to drive their desired corporate goals.    About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Retail marketing is changing fast, and AI is at the center of it all. John Gomez, CEO of RPM Labs, breaks down how AI-driven retail media is transforming the in-store shopping experience.  John shares insights from his journey in the retail industry to pioneering AI-powered intent engines that make in-store media more relevant and effective. He reveals why traditional retail media has struggled, how AI is solving the biggest challenges and what the future holds for digital wallets and customer engagement.  Tune in for a candid conversation on where retail media is headed next, along with John's take on how to make every media dollar count while creating a seamless shopping experience. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About John Gomez: John Gomez is a seasoned executive with a track record of leadership at world-class brands. Currently leading RPM Labs, he brings deep expertise in operations, marketing and strategic growth. Prior to this role, John served as President and CEO of KKR-owned Cardenas Markets, where he spearheaded the effort to build the largest Hispanic grocery chain in the U.S. His leadership journey also includes roles as EVP of Operations, Marketing and Merchandising at Trader Joe's, as well as Chief Operating Officer at Argo Tea.     About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

In this AI Playground episode of Leader Generation, the Mod Op team explores DeepSeek, a new open-source AI model making waves in the industry.  Tessa Burg, Aaron Grando, Patty Parobek, and Sasha Dookhoo break down what makes DeepSeek different, how it stacks up against other AI models like ChatGPT, and why businesses must be cautious before jumping in. You'll hear firsthand insights on DeepSeek's potential advantages—including improved reasoning and cost efficiency—as well as serious security and privacy concerns. Should marketers and business leaders start using it? What risks come with its data storage policies? And how does this model shape the future of AI adoption?  Tune in to hear expert opinions, real-world testing insights, and key takeaways to help you make informed AI decisions. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    Contributors: Tessa Burg, CTO at Mod Op Aaron Grando, VP of Creative Innovation at Mod Op Patty Parobek, VP of AI Transformation at Mod Op Sasha Dookhoo, VP of PR at Mod Op   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Tessa Burg welcomes Tal Jacobson, CEO of Perion, for a conversation about the fast-moving world of digital media.  Tal shares insights from his nearly 30-year career in digital marketing. With a deep understanding of both technology and media, Tal explains why marketers need to shift their focus from channels and formats to audience behavior—and how AI can help cut waste and drive real results. Tal explains how to navigate a complex media landscape, optimize ad spend without relying on outdated methods like cookies, and gain real clarity on what's working. He also breaks down how AI-powered solutions can unify campaign strategies across platforms, eliminate inefficiencies, and make marketing smarter—not just automated.  Everyone from CMOs to marketing strategists will hear fresh ideas on how to make data-driven decisions without getting lost in the noise. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Tal Jacobson: Tal Jacobson has been a leader and executive in the ad-tech industry for more than two decades. Prior to his appointment as Perion's CEO in 2023, Tal served as General Manager of CodeFuel, Perion's Search Advertising unit, since 2018. During his tenure, he turned CodeFuel into a significant driver of Perion's market share and valuation. He also cemented a strategic relationship with Microsoft, for which the company won the Microsoft Advertising Global Supply Partner Award. Prior positions included: Chief Revenue Officer of SimilarWeb, VP of Business at McCann Erickson, CEO at Watchitoo and Director of Business Development at AOL.    About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Navigating change in today's fast-moving marketing landscape isn't easy—especially with the constant pressure to adopt new technologies, evolve strategies and meet ambitious goals.  In this episode of Leader Generation, host Tessa Burg talks with Anna Jankowska, Author and EVP of Adlook and RTB House, to discuss how leaders can bring their teams along through transformation while maintaining clarity, confidence and connection. Anna shares her expertise on building strong, trusting relationships in business, reducing noise in decision-making and creating an environment where people feel safe to grow and innovate. She also offers insights into managing fear, embracing failure as a learning tool and fostering an adaptive mindset in uncertain times.  This is a great episode for those looking for real-world leadership strategies that balance emotional intelligence with high performance. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Anna Jankowska: Anna is the EVP of Global Partnerships at RTB House and Adlook, and the author of the ebook The Power of Personal: Unlocking Your Authentic Self to Build Business Relationships and Achieve Success. It is a collection of her articles, offering insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing personal limits, and building trust in uncertain times. Rooted in real experiences, this ebook encourages professionals to leverage their unique stories to form meaningful connections and navigate their careers with authenticity. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

In this episode of Leader Generation, host Patty Parobek is joined by Technical Project Managers, Ian Pescod and Jose Franceschi, who share their hands-on experience testing Microsoft Copilot in Mod Op's AI Playground.  Ian and Jose discuss how Microsoft Copilot has helped streamline their workflows, from automatic note-taking in meetings to document formatting and email assistance. They agree that this tool is for anyone who has ever struggled with staying present in meetings while jotting down key takeaways, or looking for ways to boost efficiency in Microsoft apps like Word, Excel and Outlook.  Ian and Jose provide honest insights into Microsoft Copilot's strengths, how it compares to other AI tools, and whether it's worth integrating into your workflow. Tune in to discover if Microsoft Copilot could be worth the investment. Leader Generation is brought to you by Mod Op.    Contributors: Ian Pescod, Technical Project Manager at Mod Op Jose Franceschi, Technical Project Manager at Mod Op   Guest Host, Patty Parobek: As Vice President of AI Transformation, Patty leads Mod Op's AI practice group, spearheading initiatives to maximize the value and scalability of AI-enabled solutions. Patty collaborates with the executive team to revolutionize creative, advertising and marketing projects for clients, while ensuring responsible AI practices. She also oversees AI training programs, identifies high-value AI use cases and measures implementation impact, providing essential feedback to Mod Op's AI Council for continuous improvement. Patty can be reached on LinkedIn or at Patty.Parobek@ModOp.com.  

Before introducing Aaron Grando to review the AI-powered coding assistant Cursor, Tessa Burg explores the key trends shaping the future of AI in 2025. From the explosion of new technologies to the rise of real-time personalization, Tessa lays out a roadmap for how businesses can strategically adopt AI. She also highlights the shift towards smaller, more senior teams and how collaboration will become critical for maximizing AI's potential. Aaron Grando, VP of Creative Innovation at Mod Op, shares his hands-on experience with Cursor. Aaron explains how this powerful app streamlines workflows, enhances context, and even integrates non-coding tasks like notes and project insights. Curious about how AI can make your team more productive and creative? This episode shares relatable examples to help you get started. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  Contributor Aaron Grando: Aaron Grando, VP, Creative Innovation on Mod Op's Innovation team, is a seasoned technologist with over 15 years of experience at creative agencies. With a background in strategy, design, engineering, and marketing, Aaron has worked extensively in industries like media, entertainment, gaming, food & beverage, fashion, and technology. At Mod Op, Aaron leads efforts to integrate AI into creative processes, creating tools that connect creatives and clients with insights, spark ideas, and enable new brand experiences. Projects include collaborations with companies like NBCUniversal, Bethesda Softworks, Under Armour, Planet Fitness, Dietz & Watson, and more, focusing on infusing creative strategies with innovative technology to create cutting-edge brand experiences. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

In this episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg welcomes Kevin Purvis, managing partner at Cothrom Risk and Insurance Services, to discuss the growing risks marketers face in today's fast-evolving digital landscape.  From data privacy laws like CCPA and GDPR to the increasing use of AI tools in marketing, Kevin sheds light on the vulnerabilities these innovations bring and how marketers can address them proactively. Listeners will gain valuable insights into safeguarding their marketing strategies, building cross-departmental collaboration, and using insurance as a safety net for emerging risks.  Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Kevin Purvis: Kevin Purvis is the Managing Partner of Cothrom Risk & Insurance Services, an insurance brokerage focused on innovation businesses such as technology, med-tech, life sciences and advanced manufacturing. An 18-year insurance veteran, he is a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and prior Chair of TechAssure (techassure.org). He, his wife, and four kids live in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and are all avid mountain bikers. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council, and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Mod Op's AI Playground makes exploring emerging AI technologies safe and effective. It gives people quick access to cutting-edge technology while making sure everything stays secure, compliant, and ethical. By testing real-world use cases and tracking results, the AI Playground turns ideas into solutions that bring real value to clients. In this episode, Alyssa Curci and Jonathan Murray focus on practical ways businesses can use AI to improve workflows, manage data, and empower teams. They share their firsthand experiences with Microsoft Copilot and Google NotebookLM, highlighting how these applications can save time and enhance productivity. Tune in for real-life use cases, practical tips, and expert opinions that can help you make decisions about AI adoption in your workplace. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    Contributors: Alyssa Curci, Senior Vice President of Customer Delivery at Mod Op Jonathan Murray, Chief Strategy Officer at Mod Op   Host: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Paul Kelly, Chief Revenue Officer of A Million Ads (AMA), joins us to explore the rapidly evolving world of personalized audio advertising.  Paul shares how AI is revolutionizing audio marketing, turning what was once a branding channel into a performance-driven powerhouse. He also talks about AMA's Studio.AI tool that allows marketers to deliver hyper-personalized, dynamic audio ads at scale. Hear why podcasting, streaming audio and even audiobooks are becoming critical components of a media mix. Plus, discover how AI-driven tools can unlock new opportunities to reach diverse, fragmented audiences with messages tailored to location, time and behavior. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Paul Kelly: Paul Kelly is the Chief Revenue Officer of A Million Ads (AMA). AMA is the leader in Dynamic Creative for audio, delivering customized, data-driven, dynamic ads on the world's largest audio platforms. Using any combination of contextual and audience-level data, AMA dynamically serves the most relevant and actionable ad to each listener.    About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

In this episode, Cheryl Boehm and Tessa Burg discuss the potential of AI agents in marketing.  Tessa Burg explains the concept of AI agents and how they differ from GPTs. They talk about how these tools go beyond traditional apps, automating complex tasks, providing predictive insights and enabling marketers to focus on strategic problem-solving.  Tessa shares real-world examples from Mod Op's AI journey, starting in 2016, and how their new Mod Engine platform is creating a connected ecosystem for innovation. Listeners will learn how AI agents are reshaping roles, fostering creativity, and providing scalable solutions for marketers and clients alike. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon.   About Cheryl Boehm: Cheryl Boehm is a digital content writer with 25+ years of marketing experience, primarily in B2B. She strives to deliver the best online experiences to customers and prospects that, ultimately, lead to company growth for clients. She stubbornly insists there's no single messaging approach that's right for everyone. Period. So, in her role as Director of Copywriting at Mod Op, Cheryl pushes to personalize content strategy with an individual “cheat code” that empowers each client to reach their end game fastest. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Building on part one of the Responsible Use series, Tessa Burg and Patty Parobek explore how organizations can assess AI tools, minimize risks and scale AI-driven innovations effectively.  They share a framework—covering everything from understanding data privacy and compliance to evaluating ROI—designed to empower businesses to adopt AI responsibly while driving measurable value. Listeners will also hear about the "AI Playground," a fast-track approach to testing AI tools.  This episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world examples to help you confidently navigate the world of AI. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon.   About Patty Parobek: As Vice President of AI Transformation, Patty leads Mod Op's AI practice group, spearheading initiatives to maximize the value and scalability of AI-enabled solutions. Patty collaborates with the executive team to revolutionize creative, advertising and marketing projects for clients, while ensuring responsible AI practices. She also oversees AI training programs, identifies high-value AI use cases and measures implementation impact, providing essential feedback to Mod Op's AI Council for continuous improvement. Patty can be reached on LinkedIn or at Patty.Parobek@ModOp.com.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

In part one of a two-part series, Tessa Burg focuses on a critical topic for businesses today: the responsible use of AI. With ChatGPT and other AI tools rapidly reshaping marketing and business, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of why every organization needs a Responsible Use Policy.  Tessa outlines practical steps for creating frameworks that safeguard data, inspire confidence in AI experimentation and scale innovation. Listeners will learn how to address the tension between early adopters and skeptics, assess the impact of AI tools on marketing processes and implement policies that protect clients and brands.  Whether you're just beginning your AI journey or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you harness AI responsibly and effectively. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon. About Patty Parobek: As Vice President of AI Transformation, Patty leads Mod Op's AI practice group, spearheading initiatives to maximize the value and scalability of AI-enabled solutions. Patty collaborates with the executive team to revolutionize creative, advertising and marketing projects for clients, while ensuring responsible AI practices. She also oversees AI training programs, identifies high-value AI use cases and measures implementation impact, providing essential feedback to Mod Op's AI Council for continuous improvement. Patty can be reached on LinkedIn or at Patty.Parobek@ModOp.com. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

In this episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg and Cheryl Boehm take listeners on a journey through the podcast's past, present and future.  Reflecting on its beginnings in 2019, they share how the series evolved from a biweekly exploration of rapid testing to its current role as a hub for insights, innovation and client-driven learning. Cheryl recounts how the podcast has grown beyond its initial vision, now touching on cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence and its transformative impact on businesses. The episode also introduces the exciting launch of the AI Playground, a new initiative designed to demystify AI tools and applications. Through candid conversations, Cheryl and Tessa explore the benefits of testing AI in controlled environments, the importance of responsible use and how this initiative empowers clients and teams to work smarter.  Whether you're new to the series or a long-time listener, this episode delivers practical takeaways, a fresh perspective on innovation and a behind-the-scenes look at how Leader Generation continues to grow. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon.   About Cheryl Boehm: Cheryl Boehm is a digital content writer with 25+ years of marketing experience, primarily in B2B. She strives to deliver the best online experiences to customers and prospects that, ultimately, lead to company growth for clients. She stubbornly insists there's no single messaging approach that's right for everyone. Period. So, in her role as Director of Copywriting at Mod Op, Cheryl pushes to personalize content strategy with an individual “cheat code” that empowers each client to reach their end game fastest.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

How can AI improve your team's productivity and creativity? In this episode of the Leader Generation podcast, host Tessa Burg welcomes Colleen Malloy, CMO of Brunswick Companies. Together, they explore how AI agents are reshaping the future of marketing and empowering teams to work smarter. Colleen shares her journey of building an agentic workforce, where AI agents streamline tasks, boost productivity and unlock new levels of creativity.  Listeners will gain practical ways to introduce AI into their organization, overcome fears of new technology and maximize AI's potential in marketing. It's perfect for leaders ready to innovate and increase their teams' performance. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon. About Colleen Malloy: Colleen Malloy is the Chief Marketing Officer at Brunswick Companies, where she leads AI adoption initiatives and drives strategic growth through data-driven marketing. With more than 20 years of experience in technology optimization, SEO, content marketing and brand strategy, Colleen has a proven track record of using innovative tools to create impactful strategies. Prior to Brunswick Companies, Colleen held leadership roles at Fathom, StackSource and Design Milk Co., where she was known for championing high-performing teams and optimizing marketing tech stacks. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Responsible AI use isn't just an option—it's a necessity. In this episode of Leader Generation, Monica Richter, Mod Op's strategic advisor and former Chief Data Officer, talks about how a strong AI policy helps protect brands, builds client trust and encourages innovation.  Monica uses real-world insights to explain why responsible AI matters, how to define ethical standards for your organization and the steps every leader should take to ensure AI is used wisely.  Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon. About Monica Richter: Monica Richter is an Executive in Residence at Mod Op Strategic Consulting, a corporate and nonprofit Board Advisor, Trustee and transformation consultant. With over 25 years of leadership experience, she now specializes in advising on strategy, business pivots, data-driven growth, analytical excellence, and innovation via technology and collaboration. She thrives on change, learning and inclusive leadership. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Curious about how AI will shape the future of marketing? In this milestone 100th episode of the Leader Generation podcast, Eric Bertrand and Tessa Burg take a look at what's next for AI-driven marketing. Eric shares his vision for harnessing AI to boost efficiency, elevate creativity and deliver real value to clients. From streamlining repetitive tasks to using data for smarter decision-making, Eric talks about how marketers can adapt to rapidly changing technology. Whether you're considering AI adoption or already working on it, Eric shares ideas on how to maximize ROI and add AI into existing workflows. His outlook on the role of data, client-focused innovation and self-governance is great for marketers looking to drive AI transformation.   Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon.   About Eric Bertrand: Eric Bertrand is the CEO of Mod Op, with experience in operating and managing start-ups, growth-stage businesses and publicly traded companies. Prior to Mod Op, Eric was a venture capital fund manager, where he invested $400 million in 60+ companies for over 25 years. He has served on over 30 boards, including several non-profit organizations, and brings industry expertise in media and entertainment, retail, consumer products, business services and information technology. Get in touch with Eric at eric@modop.com or follow him on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

What does it take for a brand to stand out in a world dominated by automation and AI? Tessa Burg finds out from Jeni Gardner, a seasoned marketing and media executive. With over 30 years of experience working with major global brands, Jeni shares how established companies can leverage their legacy strengths while adopting the agility of challenger brands. She explains why, even in a data-driven age, creativity and authenticity remain essential for building strong, lasting connections with customers. Jeni also discusses how brands can harness new technologies to elevate the customer experience, streamline operations and stay relevant in a fast-changing market.  Whether you're a CMO, marketer or simply curious about the future of branding, check out this episode to learn how to keep your brand story consistent while adapting to the latest technological trends. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon.   About Jeni Gardner: Jeni Gardner is an Executive Leader in Marketing and Media. She has extensive experience fostering strategic media partnerships and spearheading innovation in both traditional and digital media campaigns. Additionally, she is passionate about advancing the industry in key areas, specifically digital accountability and measurement. To learn more, connect with Jeni on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

What if the key to future-proofing your digital marketing strategy lies in human connection? In this episode, Phil Schraeder, CEO of GumGum, talks about a contextual-first approach to marketing. He shares how this AI-powered strategy allows brands to connect with consumers by focusing on their real-time experiences rather than relying on personal data. Phil explains how understanding a consumer's environment helps brands deliver ads that resonate more authentically. He introduces the idea of the "mindset era," where technology helps marketers match the right message with the right moment, driving stronger engagement. Listeners will also hear about the challenges of modern marketing, including the need for immediate results and the limitations of identity-based targeting. Phil offers insights into how brands can stay relevant by anticipating cultural moments and building meaningful, lasting connections. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done, now available on Amazon.   About Phil Schraeder: Phil Schraeder is an executive and recognized thought leader in digital advertising and contextual technologies…who loves fashion and EDM music. As Chief Executive Officer of GumGum, the leading contextual intelligence company, Phil Schraeder believes that we don't need to know who people are in order to deliver relevant, engaging and effective digital advertising. As the CEO, he is responsible for GumGum's success in leading the industry in privacy-first, contextual intelligence technologies based on a consumer's mindset, and not their personal data. Phil is passionate about making advertising experiences better for consumers by ushering the industry into mindset-first, privacy-forward solutions in an exciting and fast-moving digital ecosystem. Be sure to follow Phil on LinkedIn. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

How can businesses use AI while maintaining trust?  In this episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg and Patty Parobek talk about developing AI policies that strike a balance between innovation and responsibility. They discuss how companies can move beyond inconsistent AI adoption and fully integrate AI solutions to enhance efficiency, creativity and growth. Patty also explains how setting clear policies and governance can actually accelerate AI adoption rather than hold it back.  This episode offers practical steps for marketers working through AI challenges to help them build policies that promote responsibility, inspire trust and encourage innovative use of AI across teams and customer interactions. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Patty Parobek: As Vice President of AI Transformation, Patty leads Mod Op's AI practice group, spearheading initiatives to maximize the value and scalability of AI-enabled solutions. Patty collaborates with the executive team to revolutionize creative, advertising and marketing projects for clients, while ensuring responsible AI practices. She also oversees AI training programs, identifies high-value AI use cases and measures implementation impact, providing essential feedback to Mod Op's AI Council for continuous improvement. Patty can be reached on LinkedIn or at Patty.Parobek@ModOp.com. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

How can businesses use the power of AI while keeping their human expertise front and center? In this episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg chats with Shaheen Samavati to explore how AI is changing global content creation.  Shaheen shares her experiences with integrating AI tools—like ChatGPT and custom GPTs—into workflows without sacrificing creativity or cultural relevance. Whether you're curious about using AI to enhance your content or balancing automation and human touch, this episode is for you. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. For an executive guide to growth and transformation, check out our book Getting Digital Done. About Shaheen Samavati: Shaheen Samavati is the Co-Founder and CEO of VeraContent, an agency that manages localized content marketing channels for international brands across key European markets. After starting her career as a journalist in the US, she moved to Spain in 2010, where she completed an MBA at IE Business School, worked in corporate communication, and formed part of the founding team of real estate startup Spotahome before launching VeraContent in 2016. Today, she oversees a talented team that creates and localizes content for blogs, social media pages, and other marketing channels in Europe and beyond. Get in touch at shaheen@veracontent.com or LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council, and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

How can your business take advantage of AI through operational change? In this episode, Tessa Burg talks with Alane Boyd, co-founder of Workday Ninja, to explore this topic.  Alane shares why COOs and CTOs are often at the forefront of AI adoption and how marketers can tap into those efforts to improve efficiency and scale their results. They also discuss practical steps for overcoming common challenges in AI integration, from reducing burnout to boosting employee retention.  Curious about how to make AI work for your team and improve processes? This conversation offers realistic takeaways and real-world examples to inspire you to rethink how technology fits into your business strategy. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Alane Boyd: Alane Boyd is a serial entrepreneur, passionate leader and a high-growth founder. She's a visionary who believes in impact-driven, result-oriented leadership. Her skillsets focus on operations, sales, marketing and technical skills. Alane likes to use her time to guide and mentor others, whether in her company or other founders, to grow and scale their abilities. Be sure to follow Alane on LinkedIn. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

In this episode, Tessa Burg talks with Stefan Tornquist about how AI is changing knowledge work and the future of skill development. Discover how AI is reshaping marketing by automating routine tasks, freeing up professionals for more strategic, creative work. Stefan shares insights from Econsultancy's research on AI's growing role in professional services, drawing comparisons between today's AI disruption and the early days of the internet. They also discuss how emotional intelligence and targeted training can help teams embrace AI, adapt and thrive. Tune in for ideas on how you can boost your team's skills and productivity with AI. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Stefan Tornquist: Stefan Tornquist is SVP of Learning and Research at Econsultancy, where he focuses on learning experience and curriculum development. He manages a team of subject matter experts, designers and experience creators that turns best practice research into dynamic learning content. He has also authored courses on a variety of topics, including customer experience strategy, AI in decision-making and developing a powerful mindset. Be sure to follow Stefan on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Ever wondered how to get Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials and Gen Z to collaborate effectively? In the latest episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg chats with Kathryn Landis about the unique challenges and opportunities of multiple generations working side by side. Kathryn explains how understanding and empathy can help bridge generational gaps, creating a more inclusive and productive workplace. She shares practical tips for marketing and business leaders on adapting their management styles to create a workplace culture that accommodates diverse working styles and enhances communication across all age groups. For those in leadership roles, this conversation offers ideas on creating environments where all generations can thrive, innovate and drive business success. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how to build a stronger, more dynamic team! Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Kathryn Landis: Kathryn is the Founder and CEO of Kathryn Landis Consulting, a global executive and team coaching firm dedicated to helping leaders empower and inspire teams, and become the best version of themselves in work and life. Her insights and strategies have gained recognition in prestigious publications such as the Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Fast Company, further establishing her reputation as a highly sought-after expert in her field. Follow her on LinkedIn and subscribe to her newsletter: Your Future, Your Work. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

In this episode, Tessa Burg talks with long-time friend and AI transformation expert Patty Parobek about the intersection of AI and marketing.  Patty draws from her rich marketing strategy and change management background to explore the critical role of aligning AI initiatives with a solid organizational vision. She highlights the power of collaboration, adaptability and positivity in driving successful change and shares valuable insights on the future of AI in marketing. Patty also emphasizes the importance of personalized training and thoughtful implementation to harness AI's potential.  The episode wraps up with a powerful call to action for leaders to define their “North Star” to guide effective and meaningful transformation. Tune in for inspiration on your own journey to AI and change management. To learn more and be a leading change agent in your organization, register for MAICON 2024 with coupon code MODOP100, plus meet up with Tessa and members of the Mod Op team. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Patty Parobek: Patty Parobek, Vice President of Artificial Intelligence Transformation at Mod Op, leads the agency's AI practice group. She spearheads initiatives to maximize the value and scalability of AI-enabled solutions. Patty collaborates with the executive team to revolutionize creative, advertising and marketing projects for clients, while ensuring responsible AI practices. She also oversees AI training programs, identifies high-value AI use cases and measures implementation impact, providing essential feedback to Mod Op's AI Council for continuous improvement. Patty can be reached on LinkedIn or at Patty.Parobek@ModOp.com.  About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Discover how AI can transform your marketing strategies. Liza Adams, one of Pavilion's 50 CMOs to Watch in 2024, joins Tessa Burg to share how AI enhances strategic value and deepens market insights.  They highlight the shift from broad to targeted marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of data quality and ethical AI usage. Liza stresses the need for quality data and education to use AI effectively.  Listen now to hear how to harness AI for personalized, human-centric campaigns that build trust and drive sustainable profitability. Use coupon code ModOp100 to register for MAICON 2024 and hear Liza speak in person, plus meet up with Tessa and members of the Mod Op team. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Liza Adams: As an AI Advisor and Fractional CMO with GrowthPath Partners, Liza Adams guides companies through their AI journey and accelerates responsible AI adoption. She is a recognized AI thought leader, prolific writer and public speaker with more than a decade of AI experience that began with machine learning and predictive analytics, then steadily evolved. Liza was recognized as a person to follow in AI at G2's 2023 Reach event and one of the 50 CMOs to watch in 2024 by Pavilion. Well-known publications like Forbes and Marketing Profs cover her work and insights. To learn more, follow Liza on LinkedIn. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Tessa Burg welcomes Alani Kuye back to discuss more detail about artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). In this conversation, Tessa and Alani discuss how AI and ML reshape industries and the dramatic shift from Web3 to AI funding. Discover the importance of foundational business practices and learn about the critical role of big data, neural networks and human expertise in guiding AI development. Understand the significance of collaboration, user experience and simplification in successfully scaling technology.   Get an expert take on the future of agencies and the impact of AI on various professions on Leader Generation—hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.     About Alani Kuye: Alani Kuye is the Chief Growth Officer at Mande Network. He's a seasoned technology executive with over 20 years of experience scaling platforms, building technology ecosystems, startup acceleration and investing. Alani is passionate about leveraging blockchain technology, decentralized platforms and artificial intelligence to create decentralized global ecosystems that empower people and businesses. He's also published multiple papers on blockchain governance frameworks. Connect with Alani on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Join Tessa Burg as she talks with technology investor and advisor Alani Kuye.  On this episode of the Leader Generation Podcast, Tessa and Alani explore the strategic significance of the current technology wave. They focus on the evolution from Web2 to Web3 and the importance of decentralized infrastructure.  Alani emphasizes the importance of bridging old and new technologies for a seamless transition in the tech industry. They also discuss the critical role of data privacy, the hype around AI and ML, and the need for quality over quantity in innovation.  Alani ends by offering valuable advice to startups on simplifying processes and providing an alternative to competing directly with giants. Listen now to learn more about navigating today's tech landscape and the future of digital innovation. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Alani Kuye: Alani Kuye is the Chief Growth Officer at Mande Network. He's a seasoned technology executive with over 20 years of experience scaling platforms, building technology ecosystems, startup acceleration and investing. Anani is passionate about leveraging blockchain technology, decentralized platforms and artificial intelligence to create decentralized global ecosystems that empower people and businesses. He's also published multiple papers on blockchain governance frameworks. Connect with Alani on LinkedIn. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Join us for this episode of Leader Generation, where Tessa Burg talks with Simon Severino, CEO of Strategy Sprints. With over 20 years of experience, Simon has perfected the art of go-to-market strategies, primarily catering to Fortune 500 companies. In this conversation, Simon shares insightful strategies for creating a culture of opportunity within organizations, stressing the importance of being buyer-centric in today's fast-paced market. Simon also discusses the integration of AI and machine learning tools to streamline processes and enhance decision-making. Whether you want to revamp your sales approach or transform your company culture, this episode offers valuable ideas to drive business growth. Tune in for valuable insights that can redefine how your business competes and thrives in the digital world. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Simone Severino: Simon Severino is the Founder of Strategy Sprints. He's created 2B+ in additional sales for his clients over the last 20+ years. As an advisor who became CEO, he had to learn the importance of working ON the business more than IN it. Now, he shares his proven templates with high-ticket entrepreneurs. They reclaim 14 hours per week using the Strategy Sprints™ Method and enjoy soaring sales—author of “Strategy Sprints,” podcast host, TEDx speaker and Forbes contributor. Follow Simon on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

In this episode of Leader Generation, Tessa Burg, and Matz Lukmani continue their conversation about Google Performance Max and its benefits for marketers.  Matz assures listeners that Performance Max isn't just for businesses with short sales cycles; it's also adaptable for longer cycles. He emphasizes the need to map out the entire lead-to-conversion journey for effective tracking. Throughout the discussion, Matz shares practical tips for boosting lead conversion rates. But it's not all technical talk. Tessa and Matz also explore strategies for campaign optimization, including ways to prevent ad fatigue and protect brand reputation. Matz wraps up the episode by suggesting additional resources and training to help listeners learn more about capturing leads with Performance Max. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Matz Lukmani: Matz Lukmani (EMEA Product Lead, Google Performance Max), based in London (UK), has been with Google for more than nine years, working on products like Google Analytics 360, Google Ads, Search Ads 360 and Firebase Analytics. He currently leads Performance Max Campaigns and Attribution offerings within Google Ads, Search Ads 360 and Google Analytics in EMEA. He has worked over 15 years in the USA in various leadership roles at SAP, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Toys R Us, MediaCom, Triad Retail Media and PwC, to name a few. He offers analytics consulting services in web analytics, predictive analytics and advanced marketing AI across a wide range of industries. Be sure to follow Matz on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Join us this week as we welcome back Matz Lukmani to discuss optimizing your ad campaigns with Google's extensive media inventory for improved lead quality and conversion rates. Matz, a product lead for Google Performance Max, shares compelling success stories from companies who've seen notable enhancements in lead qualification and ROI after upgrading their campaigns. He stresses the need for robust measurement and patience to fully leverage PMax. Tune in to learn how to refine your lead generation tactics and achieve remarkable results with Google Performance Max. Plus, don't miss your chance to get a virtual front-row seat at Google Marketing Live on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, to discover the latest Google Ads innovations and see how Google AI can boost your business. Register now! Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. About Matz Lukmani: Matz Lukmani (EMEA Product Lead, Google Performance Max), based in London (UK), has been with Google for more than nine years, working on products like Google Analytics 360, Google Ads, Search Ads 360 and Firebase Analytics. He currently leads Performance Max Campaigns and Attribution offerings within Google Ads, Search Ads 360 and Google Analytics in EMEA. He has worked over 15 years in the USA in various leadership roles at SAP, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Toys R Us, MediaCom, Triad Retail Media and PwC, to name a few. He offers analytics consulting services in web analytics, predictive analytics and advanced marketing AI across a wide range of industries. Be sure to follow Matz on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com. Topics In This Episode:   Advantages of Google Performance Max Client success stories Technical advancements Measurement and upgrades Digital transformation Value-based bidding Campaign optimization Quality control and security

Will Cady, Reddit's Global Brand Ambassador, joins us to discuss the relationship between anxiety and creativity. He shares practical advice on transforming anxious feelings into creative fuel and highlights the importance of managing emotions to enhance creativity. We also explore how artificial intelligence is changing the creative workforce and why Will believes AI is best used to complement, not replace, human creativity. Tune in to learn how to turn your deepest anxieties into artistic expression and navigate the evolving world of creative professions. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Will Cady: Will Cady has walked a path from zen monasteries and touring rock bands into his current role as the Global Brand Ambassador at Reddit, where he also serves as the company's weekly meditation guide and tarot reader. On his path, Will studied deeply with virtuoso musicians, mystical healers and boundary-breaking entrepreneurs to develop a uniquely potent practice for cultivating creative vision. This practice is at the core of how he builds, leads and advises teams of creators today. Be sure to follow Will on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. Plus, check out his book, Which Way Is North: A Creative Compass for Makers, Marketers, and Mystics, available on Amazon.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Evan Shapiro shares how big tech companies are redrawing the boundaries of the media sector. This episode covers today's seismic shifts, from the rise and impact of tech giants to the strategic use of data in marketing.  The episode explores how brands must adjust to changing consumer behaviors, highlighting the essential shift from reach to meaningful engagement. They discuss using first-party data and machine learning to craft personalized messages that hit home. Plus, insist on measuring marketing success through actual sales, not just exposure.  With a wealth of knowledge on impact over impressions and investing in data-driven decision-making, this is an episode that marketers, media professionals, and tech leaders won't want to miss. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Evan Shapiro: Many know Evan Shapiro as the official, unofficial cartographer of the Media Universe. Using a very specific point of view, Shapiro has mapped the tech and entertainment ecosystem, and, through his essays on the Media War & Peace Newsletter, he helps chart Media's future.  Shapiro is also an Emmy and Peabody Award winning producer of many funny things, including Portlandia, This Film Is Not Yet Rated, Please Like Me, Comedy Bang Bang, Brick City, and Harmonquest.  He is also a professor at NYU and Fordham schools of business, as well as the co-host of the Cancel Culture Podcast. Shapiro uses his insights to power his change agency, ESHAP, which offers partners and consumers media insight as a service. Be sure to follow Evan on LinkedIn.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Discover key strategies for navigating the post-cookie marketing landscape on this episode of the Leader Generation podcast. Host Tessa Burg and veteran strategist Shannon Sullivan discuss the implications of cookie deprecation. With over two decades of expertise, Shannon clarifies the shift towards first-party data and how marketers can turn these changes into opportunities for deeper customer engagement.  This episode is perfect for professionals looking to refine their digital marketing tactics with actionable advice for today's privacy-centric online world. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Shannon Sullivan: Shannon Sullivan is a go-to leader for engaging audiences online. As the Executive Vice President of Audience Strategy at Mod Op, she has a knack for developing the best marketing strategies for the digital world. She uses her extensive knowledge and expertise to help businesses—big and small—get noticed. From global tech companies to smaller up-and-comers, Shannon helps businesses successfully connect with people and grow their online presence. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Get ready for some real talk about marketing in the age of automation. Mark Simon joins Tessa Burg on our latest episode of the Leader Generation podcast. They get into why strong leadership and a straightforward plan matter more than ever in digital transformation. They break down how clear communication and getting everyone on the same page are key to making automation work for your business. In this episode, you'll hear why it's smart to get your data house in order before bringing AI into the mix and why running fast into automation without a plan can lead you to more mess than success. This episode is filled with practical advice for marketers who want to use AI and automation strategically to grow their businesses successfully. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Mark Simon: Mark Simon is the Vice President of Strategy at Celigo. He's spent more than 20 years in technology roles such as software developer CTO, consultant and EVP of Services & Technology. Mark has with clients across several industries. His experience includes designing and developing automated processes for tasks like handing sales orders, managing subscriptions and provisioning.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Step into the future of branding with Steve Red and Tessa Burg. They unravel how your company can forge deeper connections with your audience through authentic storytelling. Discover the secrets to transforming data points into compelling stories that do more than sell—they create authentic brand experiences. Creativity and analytics come together as we discuss how to harness AI and ML not just to streamline operations but to infuse marketing with insights that drive growth and resonate on a human level. Learn how to make data your ally in the creative process, and shape campaigns that speak directly to the hearts and minds of your ideal customers. You'll hear ideas on how to combine AI with the human touch to tell stories that are as data-driven as they are emotionally charged. Join us to redefine what branding means in the age of technology, and discover a new era of customer engagement. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.    About Steve Red: Steve is the Co-Chief Creative Officer at Mod Op. The founder of Red Tettemer O'Connell + Partners, recently acquired by Mod Op, Steve touches virtually everything that goes out of the agency door from a creative and strategic perspective. He believes people are smart and advertising should be too, and that the only real martini is made with gin. Someday … long after his teenagers aren't teenagers anymore, he'll settle down and start painting again, which is what his dad says he should have done all along. Steve can be reached at Steve.Red@ModOp.com. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

In this episode, Len Gilbert and Tessa Burg discuss the human side of digital transformation. They highlight the importance of using technology to improve customer experience. Len opens up with a personal story about his father's recent health emergency and how it shed light on the positive impact of technology in healthcare. He introduces us to the 'hospital at home' program, which not only helped his father recover faster but also illustrates the potential of tech-driven care. This story isn't just interesting; it offers a practical guide for any industry looking to succeed with digital transformation. As the conversation shifts from Len's story to broader business strategies, the focus remains on customer experience as the key to getting digital transformation right. Marketing leaders will find this episode rich with practical tips on choosing the right technology to meet customer needs. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Len Gilbert: Len Gilbert is the EVP and Head of Strategic Consulting at Mod Op. With more than 25 years of experience, he helps companies strategically use data and technology to innovate, grow, launch new products, stay competitive, and future-proof their businesses against the risks of digital disruption. Len can be reached at len.gilbert@modop.com. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Gareth Cunningham joins Tessa Burg on the Leader Generation podcast to challenge the notion that SEO is dead due to AI advancements. Gareth, a search expert, argues that the integration of AI into SEO is not entirely new. Google already uses AI and machine learning to optimize search results, detect spam and match content with search intent. He views AI as an enhancement to SEO rather than its replacement. Here are a few topics Gareth and Tessa cover in this episode: Impact of Generative AI on SEO Evolution of search strategies Shifts in SEO practices  UX/UI integration with SEO Semantic web and authority Future directions in search technology Role of Google in shaping search trends Don't miss this exchange. It promises forward-thinking ideas about search and optimization that you can apply to your own digital marketing. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Gareth Cunningham: Gareth stands at the intersection of creativity and analytics in his role as the Director of SEO at Mod Op. He leverages his experience in digital marketing to shape the online presence of national and international brands. Gareth consistently delivers strategies that increase organic traffic and improve search rankings for clients. His innovative approaches and dedication to measurable results have cemented his reputation as a dynamic leader in search engine optimization. Gareth can be reached at gareth.cunningham@modop.com.   About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.  

Grab your earbuds and settle in for a conversation with Sharon Toerek, an expert in intellectual property and marketing law. She talks about legal and compliance issues with emerging technologies, with a special focus on generative AI. Host Tessa Burg joins Sharon to discuss how AI is reshaping the services agencies can offer. Together, they explore how to set up the right policies, use AI responsibly, and have transparent conversations with clients to manage risks. While legal topics might not usually grab your attention, Sharon makes them interesting while delivering important information for anyone in the marketing field. Visit the AI + Your Agency Resource Center for helpful downloads from Legal+Creative. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Sharon Toerek: Sharon Toerek is the Owner & Founder of Legal+Creative | Toerek Law. She's an intellectual property and marketing law attorney who devotes her legal practice to clients in the advertising, marketing, and creative services industries. Sharon helps clients protect, enforce, and monetize their creative assets and manage the legal implications of their marketing and advertising work. Sharon also writes and lectures frequently on the legal issues marketers face every day, such as intellectual property protection, social media marketing compliance, and more. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

Integrating generative AI into marketing workflows is a move only a select few forward-thinking leaders are making. We're excited to collaborate with the Test. Learn. Grow. podcast to feature discussions with two such trailblazers—Tessa Burg, host of Leader Generation and CTO at Mod Op, and Patrick Patterson, CEO at Level. These leaders are at the forefront, not just employing generative AI but also setting the standard for its application. They join the podcast to share their excitement, expert tips, bold opinions, and the valuable lessons they've learned along the way.  Listen to a conversation filled with actionable advice for anyone looking to elevate their organization's AI journey. This episode was originally published by the Test. Learn. Grow. podcast, hosted by Dale Riether and sponsored by Level.  About Patrick Patterson: From the outset of his career, Patterson applied his background in computer science and math to the challenge of reaching and engaging audiences (and carefully measuring every result). In his tenure as president & CEO of Level Agency, Patrick Patterson oversaw its transformation from a pioneering, fast-growing higher education shop into the performance-marketing powerhouse it is today. Under his leadership, the agency's revenue grew 30% or more annually; its profit margin increased 4X; its marketing spend now tops $50M annually, and its capabilities have broadened to offer more complementary services for more industries. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.